Algeria Captain to Observe Ramadan During World Cup as Coach Criticises “Insensitive” Questioning by Media
By Opeyemi Oladunjoye
Algeria coach, Vahid Halilhodzic has refused to reveal which of his Muslim players are observing Ramadan ahead of Monday’s World Cup last-16 match against Germany.
A ruffled Halilhodzic replied journalists angrily during his pre-match news conference when questioned about the 30-day dawn-to-dusk fast which began on Sunday.
“This is a private matter and when you ask this you lack respect and ethics,” said the Bosnian. “The players will do as they wish and I would like to stop this controversy.”
“It is not the first time I have Muslim players in my team, I myself am a Muslim, and I’ve always left them totally free. This is a private issue – it has to do with private freedom of expression. Those who continue criticising our team and my actions, I think it’s shameful. But I will continue [as coach], I will continue working with this team. I’m sorry that you continue criticising what I do.
“Ramadan is here and I read in some Algerian newspapers criticisms about me, about my image, about my honour. They are trying to raise hatred against Vahid, against my family, and this is really disgusting.
“Stop asking me about Ramadan, otherwise I will get up and leave.”
Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and mandatory for Muslims, making exemptions for the sick, pregnant, infirm or elderly. Individuals who are travelling or going to war are also permitted to avoid it, causing many athletes to delay the fast until a more suitable time.
Algeria captain, Madjid Bougherra has indicated he will observe the holy month, but other players like Germany midfielder, Mesut Ozil and France defender, Bacary Sagna have said they will not.